Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick took the stage on the final night of the Republican midterm conventionto pitch voters on the idea that the upcoming election is about the fundamental battle between darkness and light, with religious and political values at stake.
Known for his evangelical approach to politics and social issues, Patrick invoked the memory of the heroes of the Alamo and the American flag to drive his point home while attacking the Democratic Party.
"It's about those of us who love God, and those who want to kick God out of our country because that's what the Democrats want to do," Patrick said. "It's the very definition of communism, because it's a godless government."
The lieutenant governor pointed to his own state as a place where conservative
policies work.
Patrick spotlighted Texas' stance on pro-business, low taxes and no income tax.
"In the last two decades, 12 million people have moved to Texas, mostly fleeing blue states and their failed and deadly policies," Patrick said.
He also singled out James Talarico, the Democratic candidate in the nationally watched U.S. Senate race in Texas, calling his and the Democratic Party's platforms socialist and communist.
"In Texas, we have the saying 'We have to get it right because there's not another Texas to move to,'" Patrick said. "In November, we have to get it right because there's not another America to move to."
Dan Patrick leads in Texas lieutenant governor's race polling
The Texas Public Opinion Research's Aug. 27 poll showed Patrick leading his Democratic challenger, state Rep. Vikki Goodwin, 47% to 41%. Libertarian Anthony Cristo and independent Jeffrey Marshall each received 1% of the vote, with 8% of voters still undecided.
Here's a look at previous polls:
- Texas Pulse (Aug. 7): Patrick 49%, Goodwin 44%
- Texas Southern University (Aug. 4): Patrick 46%, Goodwin 39%
Mateo Rosiles is the Texas Connect reporter for USA TODAY and its regional papers in Texas. Got a news tip for him? Email him at mrosiles@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dan Patrick rallies Texas Republicans in faith-first convention speech
